Chapter 7

For a second time, Rafe walked in to find Mikhail with his hands on Emma.

Not fucking again.

His fist acted before he could give it a second thought, managing a blow to the side of his brother's head that rocked him.

Mikhail released Emma and took a step away. He rubbed at his jaw. "Nice shot. Thanks."

"I'd be happy to give you another."

"No need. I'd prefer to eat my next meal, not drink it."

"Rafe." She held out her hands in a pleading gesture. "This isn't what it seems."

"You mean you weren't just in his arms making out with him again?"

"I said 'no.'"

Yeah, Rafe knew she'd said no. It didn't burn any less.

"Much as it pains me to admit, she's telling the truth," Mikhail admitted quietly before Rafe could retort. "She wants nothing to do with me."

"And yet, here you are. Alone. With her."

Eyes snapping, Emma retorted, "At least he was here. He wasn't at some party having fun."